Canine Officers Converge On Payson

More than 100 teams of law enforcement officers and their canine partners converge on Payson next week.

The Payson Police Department is hosting the 16th annual Canine Officer Survival Seminar from July 7 through July 11.

This annual training involves police canine units from all over the southwest.

With more than 100 teams expected to participate, there will be a noticeable increase in police presence in the Payson area during this training.

The training scenarios will be primarily in the evenings at various locations throughout town.

A special demonstration to show these dogs' incredible talents to the public will be from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 8 at the Payson Event Center. Gates open at 5 p.m.

Police Canine Teams from all over Arizona and the Payson Police Special Response Team will put on a public demonstration in obedience, detection and suspect apprehension. There is no cost for entry to this event.

Donations will be accepted for the Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association to help fund this annual training.

Vendors will also be on hand selling canine items such as T-shirts and hats. Hot dogs will also be sold.